Fixing a leaky tub drain could be a daunting job, nevertheless it’s really a comparatively easy plumbing restore that you are able to do your self with a couple of primary instruments and supplies. The hot button is to have a transparent understanding of how a bath drain works and the steps concerned in eradicating and changing the drain meeting. On this article, we’ll stroll you thru the method of how one can plumb a bath drain, from begin to end. We’ll additionally present detailed directions, suggestions, and troubleshooting recommendation that will help you get the job finished proper.
First, it’s essential to perceive {that a} tub drain meeting consists of a number of elements, together with a drain stopper, a drain physique, a drain shoe, and a drainpipe. The drain stopper is the half that you simply use to plug the drain, whereas the drain physique is the cylindrical half that connects the drain stopper to the drainpipe. The drain shoe is a rubber gasket that helps to create a watertight seal between the drain physique and the bathtub. Lastly, the drainpipe is the pipe that carries wastewater from the bathtub to the primary drain line. When any of those elements turns into broken or worn, it may possibly trigger water to leak from the drain.
To repair a leaky tub drain, you will have to take away the previous drain meeting and substitute it with a brand new one. The method is comparatively easy and will be accomplished in a couple of hours. Nonetheless, it is essential to just remember to have the proper instruments and supplies earlier than you begin. You may additionally should be ready to get a little bit moist, as there could also be some water that leaks out whenever you take away the previous drain meeting. Upon getting every thing you want, comply with the steps on this article to get the job finished proper.
Selecting the Proper Drain
Deciding on the suitable drain on your bathtub is essential for each environment friendly drainage and a cohesive aesthetic attraction. Think about the next components when making your alternative:
Drain Sort
| Sort | Description |
|---|---|
| Pop-Up Drain | A basic drain that operates by urgent down on a stopper to open or shut the drain. |
| Toe-Contact Drain | A handy drain that opens and closes by evenly urgent on it along with your toe. |
| Waste-and-Overflow Drain | A mix drain that features an overflow gap to forestall water from spilling over the bath’s edge. |
Materials
Drains are sometimes constructed from sturdy supplies like brass, chrome steel, or plastic. Brass and chrome steel are extra proof against corrosion and tarnishing, whereas plastic drains are extra budget-friendly.
End
The end of the drain ought to complement the bath and different lavatory fixtures. In style finishes embody chrome, brushed nickel, bronze, and oil-rubbed bronze.
Measurement and Model
Select a drain that matches the diameter of your bathtub’s drain gap. Drains are available in varied kinds, from conventional to up to date, to match the general design of your lavatory.
Extra Options
Some drains supply extra options, akin to built-in hair strainers to forestall clogs and ornamental trim to boost the drain’s look.
Eradicating the Previous Drain
Earlier than you’ll be able to set up a brand new tub drain, it’s essential to take away the previous one. It is a comparatively easy course of, however it is very important comply with the steps fastidiously to keep away from damaging the bathtub or drainpipes. Listed below are the steps on how one can take away an previous tub drain:
1. Collect your instruments.
You will want a couple of instruments to take away the previous tub drain, together with a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a bucket. It will likely be useful to position a bucket underneath the drain to catch any water which will leak out whenever you take away the drain.
2. Take away the overflow plate.
The overflow plate is the small, spherical plate situated close to the highest of the bathtub. It’s held in place by a couple of screws. Use a screwdriver to take away the screws, after which pull the overflow plate off. Be sure that the drain stopper is open earlier than eradicating the overflow plate.
3. Take away the drain stopper.
The drain stopper is situated within the heart of the bathtub. It’s held in place by a small screw. Use a screwdriver to take away the screw, after which pull the drain stopper out. Now take away the washer beneath the stopper, in addition to the bathtub drain flange.
4. Take away the drain physique.
The drain physique is the primary a part of the drain meeting. It’s situated underneath the bathtub. Use a pair of pliers to loosen the nut that holds the drain physique in place. As soon as the nut is unfastened, you’ll be able to pull the drain physique out of the bathtub.
5. Clear the drainpipes.
As soon as the previous drain is eliminated, it is very important clear the drain pipes. It will assist to forestall clogs and different issues. Use a drain cleaner or a plumber’s snake to wash the pipes. Utilizing a moist/dry vacuum to suck up any remaining water or particles within the pipe can be beneficial.
Cleansing the Drain Gap
If the drain gap is clogged, you should utilize a drain snake to clear it. Insert the drain snake into the drain gap and push it down till it reaches the clog. Rotate the drain snake backwards and forwards to interrupt up the clog. As soon as the clog is damaged up, flush the drain with scorching water to take away the particles.
You may as well use a chemical drain cleaner to clear a clogged drain gap. Pour the drain cleaner into the drain gap and let it sit for the period of time specified on the product label. Flush the drain with scorching water to take away the drain cleaner and particles.
If the drain gap remains to be clogged, you could have to name a plumber to have it professionally cleaned.
Listed below are some suggestions for stopping a clogged drain gap:
| Tip | Clarification |
|---|---|
| Do not pour grease or meals down the drain. | Grease and meals can construct up within the drain and trigger a clog. |
| Use a drain strainer to catch hair and different particles. | Hair and particles can construct up within the drain and trigger a clog. |
| Flush the drain with scorching water repeatedly. | Scorching water might help to dissolve grease and cleaning soap scum that may construct up within the drain. |
Putting in the New Drain
1. Take away the Previous Drain: Utilizing a screwdriver, take away the faceplate of the previous drain. Inside, you will discover a locknut holding the drain in place. Rigorously loosen and take away the locknut and pull out the previous drain.
2. Put together the New Drain: Apply plumber’s putty to the flange of the brand new drain and insert it into the drainpipe. Make sure that the washer is correctly aligned.
3. Safe the Drain with a Locknut: Thread the locknut onto the drainpipe and tighten it clockwise utilizing a wrench. Keep away from overtightening to forestall cracking the bathtub or drain.
4. Set up the Overflow Plate:
4.1 Collect Supplies: You may want the overflow plate, overflow tube, and a screwdriver.
4.2 Insert the Overflow Tube: Push the overflow tube into the overflow gap within the tub encompass. Use pliers to softly tighten the tube.
4.3 Place the Overflow Plate: Place the overflow plate over the overflow tube and align it with the bathtub’s overflow opening.
4.4 Safe the Overflow Plate: Utilizing the screwdriver, fastidiously tighten the screws that maintain the overflow plate in place. Remember to keep away from stripping the screws.
5. Test for Leaks: Fill the bathtub with water and examine for leaks across the drain and overflow plate. If any leaks happen, tighten the locknut or screws as vital.
6. Clear Up: Use a moist fabric to wipe away any extra plumber’s putty or water.
Attaching the Overflow Plate
The overflow plate is a metallic or plastic plate that matches over the drain gap and prevents water from overflowing the bathtub. The overflow plate is normally secured by two or three screws. To connect the overflow plate:
- Find the screw holes on the overflow plate.
- Place the overflow plate over the drain gap and align the screw holes with the holes within the tub.
- Insert the screws into the holes and tighten them till the overflow plate is safe.
If the overflow plate just isn’t put in appropriately, it might leak water. Be sure that the overflow plate is stage and the screws are tight.
Extra Suggestions
Listed below are some extra suggestions for attaching the overflow plate:
- Use a stage to ensure the overflow plate is stage.
- Use a screwdriver that’s the appropriate measurement for the screws.
- Don’t overtighten the screws.
- If you’re having problem attaching the overflow plate, you’ll be able to seek the advice of a plumber.
| Software | Goal |
|---|---|
| Stage | To ensure the overflow plate is stage |
| Screwdriver | To tighten the screws |
| Plumber | To seek the advice of if you’re having problem attaching the overflow plate |
Putting in the Pop-Up Meeting
The pop-up meeting is the mechanism that permits you to open and shut the drain of your tub. It consists of a pop-up stopper, a carry rod, and a drain meeting. Putting in the pop-up meeting is a comparatively easy course of, however it is very important comply with the directions fastidiously to make sure that it’s put in appropriately.
To put in the pop-up meeting, you have to the next supplies:
- Pop-up stopper
- Raise rod
- Drain meeting
- Plumber’s putty
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
Upon getting gathered your supplies, you’ll be able to comply with these steps to put in the pop-up meeting:
Step 1: Take away the previous pop-up meeting. To do that, take away the screws that maintain the pop-up stopper in place and pull the stopper out of the drain meeting. Then, take away the carry rod from the drain meeting.
Step 2: Apply a bead of plumber’s putty to the rim of the drain meeting. It will assist to create a watertight seal between the drain meeting and the bathtub.
Step 3: Insert the drain meeting into the drain gap within the tub. Remember to align the drain meeting in order that the overflow gap is on the high.
Step 4: Hand-tighten the drain meeting till it’s cosy. Don’t overtighten the drain meeting, as this might injury the bathtub.
Step 5: Set up the carry rod into the drain meeting. To do that, insert the tip of the carry rod into the outlet within the drain meeting and push it down till it clicks into place.
Step 6: Set up the pop-up stopper. To do that, insert the pop-up stopper into the drain meeting and push it down till it clicks into place. Remember to align the pop-up stopper in order that the deal with is going through the entrance of the bathtub.
| Mistake | Tips on how to Keep away from |
|---|---|
| Overtightening the drain meeting | Hand-tighten the drain meeting till it’s cosy. Don’t use a wrench to tighten the drain meeting. |
| Putting in the pop-up stopper incorrectly | Remember to align the pop-up stopper in order that the deal with is going through the entrance of the bathtub. |
| Not making use of plumber’s putty to the rim of the drain meeting | Apply a bead of plumber’s putty to the rim of the drain meeting. It will assist to create a watertight seal between the drain meeting and the bathtub. |
Connecting the Drainpipe
Step 7: Examine and Seal the Drain
As soon as the drainpipe is related, examine all the meeting fastidiously for any leaks or gaps. Use plumbers putty or silicone sealant to fill any small gaps across the drainpipe or drain flange. Apply a beneficiant quantity of sealant across the base of the drain flange, the place it meets the bathtub and the drainpipe, and clean it out along with your finger or a putty knife. It will guarantee a watertight seal and stop water from seeping out and inflicting injury.
Suggestions for Sealing the Drain:
| Tip | Cause |
|---|---|
| Use non-hardening plumbers putty or silicone sealant. | Hardening sealants can crack over time, permitting water to leak. |
| Apply a beneficiant quantity of sealant. | A skinny seal is probably not sufficient to forestall leaks. |
| Easy out the sealant totally. | Any gaps or air pockets within the sealant can permit water to penetrate. |
| Permit the sealant to treatment utterly. | Earlier than utilizing the bathtub, permit the sealant to treatment in accordance with the producer’s directions. |
Testing the Drain
After assembling the drain, you will wish to check it for leaks. To do that, plug the overflow drain (if there may be one) and fill the bathtub with water till it reaches the overflow gap. Let the water run for a couple of minutes, then examine for any leaks across the drain meeting. Should you see any leaks, tighten the nuts on the drainpipe connections. If the leaks persist, you could want to exchange the washers or the drainpipe itself.
As soon as the drain has been examined and is leak-free, you’ll be able to set up the drain cowl and the bathtub stopper. To put in the drain cowl, merely place it over the drain opening and press down till it snaps into place. To put in the bathtub stopper, insert the stopper into the drain opening and switch it clockwise till it’s safe.
Troubleshooting Widespread Drain Issues
Clogged Drain
A clogged drain is the commonest plumbing drawback. Hair, cleaning soap scum, and different particles can construct up over time and create a blockage. To unclog a drain, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner. If these strategies do not work, you could have to name a plumber.
Gradual Drain
A gradual drain will be attributable to a partial blockage or an issue with the plumbing system. To repair a gradual drain, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a drain cleaner or a plunger. If these strategies do not work, you could have to name a plumber.
Leaking Drain
A leaking drain will be attributable to a cracked pipe, a unfastened connection, or a worn-out washer. To repair a leaking drain, you’ll be able to attempt tightening the connection or changing the washer. If these strategies do not work, you could have to name a plumber.
Gurgling Drain
A gurgling drain is attributable to air being trapped within the plumbing system. This may be attributable to a clogged vent pipe or an issue with the sewer line. To repair a gurgling drain, you’ll be able to attempt pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain adopted by a cup of vinegar. It will assist to clear the clog and take away the trapped air.
Overflowing Drain
An overflowing drain is attributable to a blockage within the drainpipe. To repair an overflowing drain, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner. If these strategies do not work, you could have to name a plumber.
Drain Flies
Drain flies are small, black flies that breed in moist areas, akin to drains. To eliminate drain flies, you’ll be able to attempt pouring a cup of boiling water down the drain adopted by a cup of bleach. It will assist to kill the flies and their eggs.
Tub Drain Stopper Not Working
A bath drain stopper can change into clogged or damaged over time. To repair a bath drain stopper, you’ll be able to attempt eradicating the stopper and cleansing it. If this doesn’t work, you could want to exchange the stopper.
Tub Drain Making Noise
A bath drain could make noise as a consequence of a unfastened connection or a worn-out washer. To repair a loud tub drain, you’ll be able to attempt tightening the connection or changing the washer. If this doesn’t work, you could have to name a plumber.
Tub Drain Gradual To Drain
A bath drain can change into gradual to empty as a consequence of a clog or an issue with the plumbing system. To repair a slow-draining tub drain, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a drain cleaner or a plunger. If these strategies don’t work, you could have to name a plumber.
| Downside | Answer |
|---|---|
| Clogged drain | Use a drain snake or chemical drain cleaner |
| Gradual drain | Use a drain cleaner or a plunger |
| Leaking drain | Tighten the connection or substitute the washer |
| Gurgling drain | Pour a cup of baking soda adopted by a cup of vinegar down the drain |
| Overflowing drain | Use a drain snake or chemical drain cleaner |
| Drain flies | Pour a cup of boiling water adopted by a cup of bleach down the drain |
| Tub drain stopper not working | Take away the stopper and clear it or substitute it |
| Tub drain making noise | Tighten the connection or substitute the washer |
| Tub drain gradual to empty | Use a drain cleaner or a plunger |
Sustaining Your Tub Drain
Conserving your tub drain clear and well-maintained is crucial to forestall clogs, leaks, and different plumbing points. Listed below are some suggestions for sustaining your tub drain:
1. Take away Hair and Particles Recurrently
Hair, cleaning soap scum, and different particles can accumulate within the tub drain, resulting in clogs. To stop this, take away any hair and particles from the drain after every use through the use of a drain stopper or hair catcher.
2. Clear the Tub Drain Stopper
The bathtub drain stopper can acquire hair, cleaning soap scum, and different particles, which may trigger clogs. To scrub the drain stopper, take away it from the drain and rinse it totally underneath operating water. You may as well use a toothbrush or different mushy brush to clean away any cussed particles.
3. Use a Drain Cleaner
Drain cleaners might help to dissolve hair, cleaning soap scum, and different particles that may clog the drain. Nonetheless, it is very important use drain cleaners sparingly and in accordance with the producer’s directions. Some drain cleaners will be corrosive, so it is very important put on gloves and eye safety when utilizing them.
4. Use a Plunger
In case your tub drain is clogged, you’ll be able to attempt utilizing a plunger to clear it. Place the plunger over the drain and plunge up and down vigorously a number of occasions. It will assist to create suction and dislodge the clog.
5. Take away the Drain Entice
If the clog is situated additional down the drain, you could have to take away the drain entice. The drain entice is a U-shaped pipe that collects particles and prevents sewer gases from coming into the toilet. To take away the drain entice, loosen the nuts that maintain it in place and pull it off the drainpipe.
6. Unclog the Drainpipe
If the clog is situated within the drainpipe, you could want to make use of a drain snake. A drain snake is a protracted, versatile device that may be inserted into the drainpipe to interrupt up and take away clogs.
7. Name a Plumber
If you’re unable to clear the clog your self, you could have to name a plumber. A plumber can use professional-grade instruments and strategies to clear even probably the most cussed clogs.
8. Preventative Upkeep
To stop clogs, it is very important maintain your tub drain clear and well-maintained. Listed below are some preventative upkeep suggestions:
9. Flush the Drain Recurrently
To stop cleaning soap scum and different particles from increase within the drain, flush it repeatedly with scorching water. You may as well add a cup of baking soda to the drain and let it sit for a couple of minutes earlier than flushing with scorching water.
10. Keep away from Placing Sure Gadgets Down the Drain
Sure gadgets, akin to hair, cleaning soap scum, and meals scraps, can clog the drain. To stop clogs, keep away from placing these things down the drain. As an alternative, get rid of them within the trash.
| Gadgets to Keep away from | Cause |
|---|---|
| Hair | Hair can tangle and kind clogs. |
| Cleaning soap scum | Cleaning soap scum can construct up on the drain and trigger clogs. |
| Meals scraps | Meals scraps can entice pests and micro organism, and can even clog the drain. |
Tips on how to Plumb a Tub Drain
Plumbing a bath drain could look like a frightening job, nevertheless it’s really fairly simple. With a couple of primary instruments and supplies, you’ll be able to simply do it your self. Here is a step-by-step information on how one can plumb a bath drain.
- Collect your supplies. You will want the next supplies:
- Tub drain meeting
- Plumber’s putty
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Hacksaw
- Measuring tape
- Put together the drain gap. Step one is to arrange the drain gap. Begin by eradicating any previous drain meeting. Clear the realm across the drain gap with a moist fabric and apply a bead of plumber’s putty across the fringe of the drain gap.
- Set up the drain meeting. Subsequent, insert the drain meeting into the drain gap. Tighten the locknut on the underside of the drain meeting utilizing an adjustable wrench.
- Join the P-trap. The subsequent step is to attach the P-trap to the drain meeting. The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that helps to forestall sewer gases from coming into the toilet.
- Join the drainpipe. Lastly, join the drainpipe to the P-trap. The drainpipe is a vertical pipe that carries wastewater from the bathtub to the sewer line.
Folks Additionally Ask About How To Plumb A Tub Drain
What measurement is a typical tub drain?
The usual measurement for a bath drain is 1-1/2 inches. Nonetheless, some tubs could have a 2-inch drain.
How do you take away a bath drain?
To take away a bath drain, first, take away the drain cowl. Then, loosen the locknut on the underside of the drain meeting utilizing an adjustable wrench. Lastly, pull the drain meeting out of the drain gap.
How do you put in a brand new tub drain?
To put in a brand new tub drain, comply with the steps outlined within the information above. Begin by making ready the drain gap. Subsequent, insert the drain meeting into the drain gap. Tighten the locknut on the underside of the drain meeting utilizing an adjustable wrench. Lastly, join the P-trap and the drainpipe.
